Holly Sheppard - Executive Chef and Founder
Holly Sheppard established Fig & Pig Catering in 2012, leveraging her extensive background in the restaurant industry. Prior to transitioning into a culinary career, she honed her skills in various restaurant roles, including front-of-house positions, all while nurturing aspirations in acting and stand-up comedy. Despite her initial focus on entertainment, Holly discovered her true passion for culinary arts during her interactions with chefs in the kitchen. This epiphany prompted her to pursue formal training at the esteemed Culinary Institute of America. Following her graduation, she embarked on a culinary odyssey, gaining valuable experience in restaurants across the nation. Along this journey, Holly cultivated her unique culinary style and ultimately decided to establish Fig & Pig Catering, inspired by her successful creation of a sought-after Brooklyn Supper Club.
Holly recognized the wedding industry as a pivotal area for expanding and refining her business focus. With a deep-rooted affection for romance and the celebration of love, it was a natural alignment for her. Moreover, Holly has long harbored a passion for catering, viewing it as an underappreciated craft often unjustly maligned. Initially labeling herself as the "anti-caterer caterer," she has since embraced this role with pride, recognizing catering as a nuanced art form. To her, each event presents a unique narrative, akin to performing in a new theatrical production. Holly finds immense joy in the intricacies of catering, relishing the opportunity to craft bespoke culinary experiences tailored to her clients' desires. She thrives on the collaborative spirit inherent in successful event execution and derives immense satisfaction from witnessing the sheer happiness of her clients, particularly newlywed couples, following their special day.
During her free time, Holly finds delight in embracing the great outdoors, whether it's soaking up the serenity of nature, discovering hidden treasures while foraging, or taking a refreshing plunge into bodies of water for a swim. She loves catching waves on her boogie board and throwing epic dinner parties. Additionally, Holly is a devoted companion to her beloved dog, Sully, ensuring he experiences nothing short of his “best life”.
Tammy Basten- Director of Catering and Logistics
With over three decades of dedicated experience in the hospitality industry, Tammy's passion for creating exceptional experiences shines through. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Sales & Meeting Management and an Associate of Science in Travel & Tourism from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI circa 1993, Tammy's educational foundation laid the groundwork for her illustrious career. Her professional journey encompasses a diverse array of roles, from various positions within hotels and restaurants to a distinguished 12-year tenure in medical communications, where she excelled as a meeting, exhibition, and event planner. Following this, Tammy dedicated nearly a decade to the realm of social event and wedding planning, culminating in the ownership and operation of the first specialty event rentals firm in the Hudson Valley.
Three years ago, Tammy found her home with us, bringing her wealth of expertise and dynamic energy to our team as our catering coordinator. In this pivotal role, she shoulders a dual responsibility: ensuring the success and satisfaction of our clients while adeptly orchestrating our front and back-of-house teams to flawlessly execute weddings and events. Tammy's infectious positivity, genuine care for detail, and unwavering commitment to seeing others thrive make her an invaluable asset to our organization. Her presence brings reassurance, knowing that everything will be handled with precision and care.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Tammy finds solace and joy in spending time at the beach on Fire Island, embarking on adventures with her family, cheering on her son John Ryan at swim meets, and indulging her passion for beauty and self care with her daughter Chloe.